The Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) and the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha visited Malaysia for the SASEAN Defence Chiefs dialogue.

Air Chief Marshal Raha addressed the gathering of fellow Defence Chiefs from ASEAN, SAARC and the observers from China, Russia and the United States. The topic of the talk was on ‘Addressing Dynamic Challenges’ from the perspective of Indian armed forces.

The Air Chief said a broad scan of the evolving geopolitical environment clearly indicates a pre-eminent shift in global strategic centre of gravity to the Asian-Pacific regions. As India is strategically located in South Asia the Air Chief said, “We hope to see increased cooperation and collective action to exchange information, build infrastructure and strengthen capabilities. In this manner, we would gain from each other’s strengths and understand each other better towards lasting peace, stability and prosperity in the ASEAN region”.

Speaking on the challenges the Air Chief highlighted on exploitation of technology by the armed forces mentioning that the DRDO is working towards self-reliance in defence systems and strategic independence. While talking on promoting affordable and cogent military solutions, India has decided to accelerate indigenous defence manufacturing through its ‘Make in India’ initiative. He continued to say that it has already given a boost to the Indian defence industries for manufacture of ships, artillery guns, aircraft, repair and overhaul, radars, sensors, communication system, etc.

“We wish to collaborate and engage effectively with SASEAN nations to enhance the security of our region and further our mutual interests of economic development and progress”.